Scheduling a dentist appointment may not be your favorite calendar event, but let’s admit, those pearly whites aren’t going to shine by themselves! It’s not just about avoiding the inevitable toothache; it’s about ensuring the person peeking into your mouth knows their molars from their incisors.
1. Fake it till you make it. Not at the Dentist’s! Before you let anyone take a drill to your pearly whites, make sure they’re the real deal. Check their credentials online. You want to see DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) after their name.
2. Ghosts of Dental Past. Does your dentist dive in without discussing your dental history? Red flag alert! From potential allergies to family history, they need to have the 411 on your oral story.
3. Speedy Treatments? Pump the Brakes. Feeling rushed into an immediate procedure that isn’t a dental emergency? That’s not okay. Some might just be prioritizing their pockets over their dental health.
4. Cosmetic Pressure = Major No-No. Looking for a sparkling smile? Fab! But if you didn’t ask for cosmetic treatments and your dentist pushes for them, it’s time to side-eye. It’s your smile; you decide its vibe.
5. Cleanliness is Dental Godliness. Those tools need to be more spotless than your makeup brushes. Check for sterilized bags, barrier tapes, and, of course, gloved hands.
6. One-size-fits-all? Not in Dentistry! There should be more than one way to fill a cavity. If they push one plan (especially an expensive one) without discussing alternatives, you might want to question their motivation.
7. Confused about the Jargon? Speak Up! You might not know your gingivitis from your periodontitis, and that’s okay. But your dentist should. If they’re not breaking it down for you, ask. If they still don’t, reconsider.
8. Talk Money Before the Drill. Nobody likes hidden fees, especially when it comes to your health. Ensure costs are clear before any procedure, so you aren’t gasping at your bill instead of your clean teeth.
At the end of the day, if something feels off, listen to that instinct. Check out online reviews or ask your fab friends for referrals. Your sparkling smile deserves the best care, after all!
